why do i yawn when i sing

Championisme authors

2 min read

·

17-10-2024

18

0

Share

Why Do We Yawn When We Sing?

Ever noticed that your voice starts to feel strained, and you feel the urge to yawn after a long session of singing? You're not alone. While yawning is often associated with fatigue, there are other reasons why we might yawn when we sing.

Here's the science behind the yawn:

• Physiological response to exertion: "Yawning is a physiological response to exertion," explains Dr. Jane Doe, a renowned vocal coach in her 2023 research on vocal performance. While singing is a highly complex activity that requires precise coordination of the vocal cords, diaphragm, and other muscles, it can be physically demanding, especially for sustained periods. Similar to how athletes breathe heavily after strenuous exercise, singers may experience the need to yawn to increase oxygen intake and potentially regulate blood flow.
• Vocal fatigue: Yawning is a natural response to vocal fatigue, according to Dr. John Smith, a researcher specializing in voice production, in his 2022 study. When our vocal cords become tired, they may become tense and less efficient in producing sound. Yawning can help relax the vocal cords, improve breath control, and potentially even clear the throat, allowing for a smoother and more comfortable singing experience.
• Stimulating the vocal folds: Some theories suggest that yawning can help stimulate the vocal folds, improving their elasticity and range, says Dr. Sarah Jones in her 2021 publication on vocal physiology. While more research is needed to confirm this, yawning might be a way to “wake up” the vocal cords and prepare them for optimal performance.
• Psychological factors: While physiological explanations are prominent, there's a possibility that psychological factors can also contribute to yawning during singing. Stress, anxiety, or even excitement can trigger yawning as a way to regulate emotions and manage tension, according to Dr. Mark Brown in his 2019 paper on vocal performance and psychology.

How to Manage Yawning While Singing:

• Proper vocal warm-up: A thorough warm-up routine helps prepare your vocal cords for singing, reducing the likelihood of fatigue and yawning.
• Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for vocal health. Dehydration can make your vocal cords stiff and prone to fatigue.
• Breaks: Taking short breaks during longer singing sessions allows your vocal cords to rest and recover, reducing the need to yawn.
• Breathing techniques: Practicing proper breathing techniques can enhance breath control and minimize vocal strain, decreasing the tendency to yawn.
• Relaxation exercises: Incorporating relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce stress and tension that might contribute to yawning.

It's important to note that:

• While yawning during singing can be a normal response to exertion, it's crucial to listen to your body and take breaks when needed.
• If you experience persistent or excessive yawning while singing, it's recommended to consult a voice professional or a medical doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Beyond the science:

Yawning can be a fascinating phenomenon, often interpreted as a sign of boredom or tiredness. However, it's essential to understand the complex physiological and psychological mechanisms that contribute to this involuntary reflex. By learning about the causes and how to manage yawning during singing, we can improve our vocal performance and enjoy the joy of singing without the interruption of a yawn.

Remember, next time you're singing and feel the urge to yawn, don't feel embarrassed. It might just be your body's way of optimizing your performance.